China's Sci-Fi Boom

China's sci-fi industry has experienced significant growth, reaching $12 billion last year. The popularity of sci-fi among young Chinese readers can be attributed to the prevalence of technology in their daily lives, such as app usage and facial recognition. The genre provides a mental escape and emotional preparation for navigating the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Chinese science fiction has gone through different waves, with influences from both local and foreign sources. The rise of the genre has resulted in challenges and opportunities, as censorship becomes more stringent and the industry becomes more commercialized.